HO GP39X, SOU #4603

Detailed Information

NEW FEATURES:

All-new LED lighting

Rubber MU hoses for durability

Models equipped with DCC+Sound will have the new 645E3 20-cylinder prime mover recording by SoundTraxx

The effort continues to enhance Athearn Genesis models per customer requests and feedback. There has been a lot of activity behind the scenes; we’re excited to include new features often requested, to the GP39X/GP49 and upcoming Genesis models.

PROTOTYPE SPECIFIC INFORMATION

Built in November 1980, Southern Railway’s six GP39X locomotives were built during a time a transition for EMD–from the Dash-2 series, to the 50-series. These 2,600hp units, powered by a 12-cylinder 645F3 prime mover, were essentially test beds (hence the “X” in their designation) for future medium-horsepower locomotives that would be part of the forthcoming 50-series. While resembling Phase I GP50s at first glance … “tapered” sidesills, “pointed” anticlimbers, rounded blower housing, and tall radiator intakes … these units had only a pair of 48” “Q-Fans” for radiator cooling, as well as revised clean air compartment and engine compartment layouts, in deference to their shorter 12-cylinder prime mover (vs. the 16-cylinder version used in the GP50).

Keeping with Southern Railway practice, these units, numbered 4600-4605, were equipped with 81” tall high short hoods, control stands set up for long-hood forward operation, bell on the long hood end, dual Nathan 5-chime horns, snowplows fore and aft, and walkway safety lights mounted to the long hood, dynamic brake housing, and high short hood.

In 1982, these six units were returned to EMD’s La Grange, Illinois plant for internal mechanical modifications and upgrades, essentially making them “true” GP49s, the medium-horsepower unit EMD cataloged as part of the 50-series. Their horsepower was raised to 2,800hp as a result, and their designation was officially changed to GP49 as well.

As medium-horsepower units, they could be found in a variety of service, from locals to mainline freights. They would continue on in service for Southern Railway’s successor, Norfolk Southern, gaining a coat of “Thoroughbred” black paint in the process, and remaining on their active roster into the early 2000s.